ἀνεπίληπτος (anepilēptos)
anepilēptos
irreproachable
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective anepilēptos describes a person who is irreproachable, literally meaning one who cannot be laid hold of or seized with blame. Its root combines a negative prefix with a verb for grasping or seizing, creating the image of someone whose conduct is so clear that no fault can be caught or held against them. This goes beyond simply being free from error; it implies that the person’s reputation is deserved and solid.
In the Pastoral Epistles, this term carries significant weight for leadership qualifications. Paul uses it to describe bishops in 1 Timothy 3:2, elders in 5:7, and Timothy himself in 6:14. The sources note that anepilēptos is stronger than synonyms like amemptos (blameless) or anenkletos (above reproach). While those words indicate a general good standing, anepilēptos suggests an active integrity that resists accusation.
Translators usually render this as "irreproachable" or "above blame," capturing the sense of unassailable character. The word emphasizes that the individual’s life leaves no opening for valid criticism, making their witness credible and their leadership secure in the eyes of the community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word anepilēptos paints a picture of integrity so solid that no valid criticism can stick to it. It describes someone whose life is open and honest, leaving no hidden corners where fault might hide. This is not about being perfect in every small detail, but about having a character that stands firm against accusation because it aligns with truth.
For your daily walk, this offers a comforting standard. You do not need to manufacture a flawless image for others. Instead, you can focus on living with such clarity and consistency that your actions speak for themselves. When your motives are pure and your conduct is upright, you build a reputation that supports your faith and strengthens your relationships.
This quality protects your witness. In a world where people often look for reasons to doubt or dismiss others, an irreproachable life removes those stumbling blocks. It allows your actions to carry weight, making it easier for others to see the goodness in what you do and, through that, in the God you serve.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- above reproach3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀνεπίλημπτον2×
- ἀνεπίλημπτοι1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 3:2
The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, good at teaching;
Paul uses this term here to set a high standard for overseers, showing that leadership requires a character so transparent that no hidden fault can be seized upon.
-
I Timothy 5:7
Also command these things, that they may be without reproach.
The instruction for widows to be 'without reproach' highlights how this word applies to personal conduct and community standing, not just official roles.
-
I Timothy 6:14
that you keep the commandment without spot, blameless until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Paul charges Timothy to keep the commandment blameless until Christ's return, linking this irreproachable state to faithful endurance over a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does anepilēptos mean in simple terms?
How is anepilēptos different from amemptos?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
I Timothy 3 verses
The overseer therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, modest, hospitable, good…
I Timothy 5:7Also command these things, that they may be without reproach.
I Timothy 6:14that you keep the commandment without spot, blameless until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,